Progress has started on disassembling the right side of Sandbar Mitchell’s center section. The team has removed both the front and rear main tanks as well as the right engine nacelle along with the hydraulic and fuel lines.
The museum has a new volunteer named Jim who has experience working on other WWII aircraft including the restoration of the Yankee Air Museum’s B-17G “Yankee Lady”. They have also made progress on the static display R-2800 engine, including the removing the front row of cylinders. Once restored to static condition, the engine will be available for sale/trade to help acquire parts and services for the Mitchell.
The team also traveled to Port Clinton, Ohio to pick up their second donated R-2600-29 engine core. The engine appears to the perfect starting point for a fresh overhaul.
Born in Milan, Italy, Moreno moved to the U.S. in 1999 to pursue a career as a commercial pilot. His aviation passion began early, inspired by his uncle, an F-104 Starfighter Crew Chief, and his father, a military traffic controller. Childhood adventures included camping outside military bases and watching planes at Aeroporto Linate. In 1999, he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, to obtain his commercial pilot license, a move that became permanent. With 24 years in the U.S., he now flies full-time for a Part 91 business aviation company in Atlanta. He is actively involved with the Commemorative Air Force, the D-Day Squadron, and other aviation organizations. He enjoys life with his supportive wife and three wonderful children.
